By
Kasturi Datta |
Explora III, the first LNG-powered ship and third overall ship to join the Explora Journeys fleet, has completed its final round of sea trials in the Mediterranean.
The sea trials included technical and operational performance testing to prepare Explora III for its summer debut. The ship will use renewable fuels, such as synthetic LNG and bio-LNG, alongside energy-efficient powering mechanisms.
“As the first LNG-powered ship in our fleet, it also marks an important step in our transition towards lower-emission technologies, supporting our pathway to net zero greenhouse gas emissions for our maritime operations by 2050,” said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys.
When it launches, Explora III will mark the halfway point in Explora Journeys’ goal to become a six-ship fleet by 2028. The cruise line’s first ships, Explora I and Explora II, launch in 2023 and 2024 respectively. Explora IV and Explora V are due in 2027, and Explora VI in 2028.
“The completion of Explora III’s sea trials marks another proud milestone for Explora Journeys as we continue to bring our long-term fleet vision to life,” said Nash. “Explora III represents the next phase in our growth and reflects our continued commitment to thoughtful innovation, exceptional guest experiences and a conscious approach to luxury ocean travel.”
Explora III has now returned to the Fincantieri shipyard near Genoa, Italy, for some interior outfitting and finishing touches. Its inaugural season will begin with the ‘Mediterranean prelude journey’ on 24 July 2026, departing from Genoa and concluding in Civitavecchia on 29 July.
Read more: Explora Journeys reveals Explora III as fleet expansion continues